Max Fried Dominates Orioles with Career-High-Tying 13 Strikeouts, Fuels Yankees Playoff Push

New York Yankees ace Max Fried delivered a stellar performance Thursday night against the Baltimore Orioles, tying his career high with 13 strikeouts over seven scoreless innings in a 7-0 victory. This dominant outing, allowing just three hits and one walk on 87 pitches, marked his MLB-leading 18th win and showcased his return to top form after a mid-season lull. Fried, now 4-0 in September with a 2.05 ERA and 28 strikeouts to seven walks in 26.1 IP, is rounding into playoff shape as the Yankees (86-67) hold the first AL wild card spot. Manager Aaron Boone praised Fried's adjustments and confidence, while Fried emphasized the team's collective effort as they aim to finish strong for the postseason.